Utility Park Planning

Clay Center, KS

Master plan guides redevelopment of historic city park and zoo to enhance amenities

Challenge

Create a master plan that guides the expansion and redevelopment of a historically significant city park containing trails, shelters, monuments and the city zoo to enhance the park’s amenities and long-term value as a community asset.

Process

SFS, working with Olsson Associates, consulted extensively with Clay Center city representatives and zoo management staff to identify current and projected needs and develop a long-term vision for the park’s future.

Solution

The proposed master plan envisions an expansion to the current park and accommodates new trails, parking, gazebos and passive park space with native landscaping and grasses. The zoo expansion includes three additional animal display areas, designed to sensitively simulate species-appropriate natural environments, linked by a public gathering space and water feature.